Kheer is a creamy Indian rice pudding made by slow-simmering rice in milk until thick and rich, then flavoured with cardamom, saffron and nuts. A staple at festivals and celebrations, it's also a comforting everyday dessert in many households.
Kheer at a Glance
| Cuisine | North Indian |
|---|---|
| Country | India |
| Meal | Dessert |
| Course | Dessert / Festival Sweet |
| Food Type | Vegetarian |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 40 minutes |
| Total time | About 70 minutes |
| Servings | 5 |
| Suggested serving | 3/4 cup |
Kheer Ingredients
- 1/4 cup rice, soaked 20 minutes; 1 litre full-fat milk; 1/2 cup sugar; 4-5 green cardamom pods, crushed; a few saffron strands; 2 tbsp chopped almonds and cashews; 1 tbsp raisins; 1 tbsp ghee.
How to Make Kheer
- Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot; lightly roast the drained, soaked rice for 1-2 minutes.
- Add milk and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 30-35 minutes until the rice is fully soft and the milk has thickened and reduced.
- Add sugar, cardamom and saffron; simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add chopped nuts and raisins; mix well.
- Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Tips
Stir frequently, especially towards the end, to prevent the milk from sticking and scorching at the bottom. Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even heat distribution. Kheer thickens further as it cools, so stop cooking slightly before your desired consistency.
Variations
Vermicelli kheer (seviyan) uses roasted vermicelli instead of rice for a different festive version. Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth and aroma.
Substitutions
Broken basmati rice works well and cooks a little faster than whole grain rice.
What to Serve With Kheer
Serve warm in winter or chilled in summer, garnished with extra nuts.
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Keeps refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the consistency, or microwave, stirring occasionally.
Kheer Nutrition Facts
Nutrition varies with exact ingredients, oil quantity and serving size. Approximate values per serving:
| Calories | 220 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Values are estimates for planning purposes and should be treated as approximate.
Potential Nutritional Benefits
Provides calcium from milk, though it is a sugar-rich dessert best enjoyed occasionally as part of festival celebrations.
Age & Serving Guidance
Suitable for toddlers from around 10-12 months onward in small quantities, given as a smooth, well-cooked dessert with nuts finely crushed or omitted.
For young children, take particular care with hot food, spice level, piece size, known allergies and individual chewing/swallowing ability.
Allergens & Food Safety
Allergens: Contains dairy (milk) and nuts (almonds, cashews).
Ensure milk doesn't scorch at the bottom; stir frequently throughout cooking.
Kheer FAQs
Why did my kheer turn out watery?
It likely needs more simmering time; kheer thickens gradually as the milk reduces, so be patient and stir frequently.
Can I use brown rice for kheer?
Yes, though it takes longer to cook and gives a slightly different, chewier texture than white rice.
Why did my milk curdle while making kheer?
Adding acidic ingredients or cooking on too high heat can cause this; keep heat low-medium and stir frequently.
Can I make kheer ahead of time for a party?
Yes, it keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be served chilled or gently reheated.
Is kheer served hot or cold?
Both are common — warm in cooler weather, chilled in summer — it's a matter of preference.
Can I make kheer with condensed milk for a shortcut?
Yes, some quicker versions use condensed milk, reducing the sugar and simmering time needed.
Why does my kheer taste bland?
Make sure to simmer long enough for the milk to properly reduce and concentrate in flavour before adding sugar and cardamom.
Can I make a vegan version of kheer?
Yes, substitute a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, though the texture and richness will differ from the traditional version.
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